Background

In light of newly enforced airport screening methods by the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA), the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) has compiled information concerning how this may affect sexual assault survivors, family and friends of survivors, and others who have experienced interpersonal violence. These screenings include invasive procedures that may cause survivors of traumatic events such as sexual violence to be re-traumatized. Additionally, we believe these new screening procedures violate an individual’s rights to feelings of personal safety, dignity, and privacy.

We are working to end the use of these invasive practices. Read our press releases below.

Tips for air travelers

· Determine if the airport you plan to travel into/out of utilizes the new security methods.

· If you are concerned about the new methods and how they may affect you, consider meeting with a therapist or other trusted friend/family member prior to traveling to discuss techniques to prepare and soothe yourself while in the security line, during the screening, and afterward.

· Contact members of your support system and ask for their support/encouragement while you travel.

· While we don’t feel that you should have to disclose information about your experiences with sexual violence if you don’t want to, some resources have been created to help survivors communicate their needs with TSA agents in a more private manner. See Quick Info Cards for Sexual Assault Survivors.

· If you elect or are required to have the enhanced pat-down performed, request that TSA employees inform you of the procedure and what exactly they will do before they perform each step in the pat-down. For example, “I am now required to pat-down your breast area.”

· Travelers can request to have the pat-down procedure done in a private area with another member of the TSA staff, or if possible, a travel companion, as a witness. This may be helpful for some, but not all, survivors.

· If you are traveling with a minor or loved one and are concerned about her/his reaction to the pat-down procedure, request to be present during the procedure.

This site is supported by Grant/ Cooperative Agreement No. 1UF2CE002359-02 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.